Wilmington firefighters hope to “fill the boot” for MDA

The Wilmington Firefighters’ annual “fill the boot” drive hopes to raise $20,000 for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

Firefighters will be holding out their boots at well-traveled city intersections.  Drivers and pedestrians are encouraged to drop in their donations. 

MDA Delaware Valley District Executive Director Melanie Parks said in addition to funding research into Muscular Dystrophy and other muscle-wasting diseases, the regional group also supports patients and their families. 

“We have families from throughout New Castle County who attend our clinics, who benefit from our educational programs, our support groups and support programs,” Parks said.  Also, the MDA Summer Camp program is underway. 

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The “fill the boot” campaign is supported nationally by the International Association of Firefighters, which made a commitment nearly 60 years ago to support MDA. 

“I think this is an extension of what we do, what they do, every day,” Wilmington Fire Chief Willie Patrick said.  “With the same passion they go out to fight a fire or effect a rescue, they’re going to be out there raising money to fight Muscular Dystrophy.” 

Patrick joined Mayor Baker in making the first contributions of the summer campaign. 

“We are really grateful for Local #1590 and their fundraising efforts to support the various programs that we do,” Parks added. 

For more information visit www.mda.org.

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